2 Chronicles 15:6

Nation was crushed by nation, and city by city, for God afflicted them with all kinds of adversity.

Study Bible

Nation was crushed by nation
This phrase reflects the turbulent period of the divided kingdom in Israel's history, where internal strife and external threats were common. The division of Israel into the northern kingdom (Israel) and the southern kingdom (Judah) led to frequent conflicts. This turmoil can be seen as a fulfillment of the warnings given in Deuteronomy 28:49-52, where disobedience to God would result in national calamity. The phrase also echoes the broader biblical theme of divine judgment upon nations that turn away from God, as seen in the prophetic books like Isaiah and Jeremiah.

and city by city
The mention of cities being crushed highlights the widespread nature of the conflict and chaos. In ancient times, cities were centers of power, commerce, and culture. The destruction of cities signifies not just military defeat but also economic and social collapse. This devastation can be compared to the fall of Jerusalem in 586 BC, as recorded in 2 Kings 25, where the city was besieged and destroyed by the Babylonians. The phrase underscores the comprehensive nature of the judgment that comes upon a people who forsake their covenant with God.

for God afflicted them
This part of the verse attributes the adversity directly to God's intervention. It reflects the biblical principle that God is sovereign over the affairs of nations and uses circumstances to bring about His purposes. This is consistent with the theology of the Old Testament, where God is seen as actively involved in the world, disciplining His people to bring them back to Himself. The affliction is not merely punitive but is intended to lead to repentance and restoration, as seen in the cycles of sin, judgment, and deliverance throughout the book of Judges.

with all kinds of adversity
The phrase indicates the variety and intensity of the challenges faced by the people. This could include military defeat, economic hardship, social unrest, and natural disasters. Such adversities are often used in the Bible to draw people back to reliance on God, as seen in the prophetic calls to repentance in books like Joel and Amos. The comprehensive nature of the adversity serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's commandments and the need for national and personal repentance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Asa
The King of Judah during the time of this prophecy. He was known for his religious reforms and efforts to return Judah to the worship of Yahweh.

2. Azariah son of Oded
The prophet who delivered God's message to Asa, encouraging him to seek the Lord and warning of the consequences of forsaking Him.

3. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, ruled by Asa, which experienced both peace and turmoil during his reign.

4. Israel
The northern kingdom, often in conflict with Judah and experiencing its own internal strife and external threats.

5. God's Affliction
The divine intervention that brought adversity upon the nations and cities, serving as a wake-up call for repentance and return to God.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Forsaking God
When nations or individuals turn away from God, they open themselves to turmoil and adversity. This serves as a reminder of the importance of remaining faithful to God’s commandments.

God's Sovereignty in Adversity
God uses adversity as a tool for correction and guidance. Recognizing His hand in our struggles can lead us to repentance and renewal.

The Call to Seek God
Just as Asa was encouraged to seek the Lord, we too are called to pursue a relationship with God, especially in times of trouble. Seeking God brings peace and stability.

The Role of Prophets and Leaders
Prophets like Azariah play a crucial role in guiding leaders and nations back to God. Spiritual leaders today are called to speak truth and encourage repentance.

Community and National Repentance
The afflictions faced by nations and cities highlight the need for collective repentance and turning back to God. This is a call for communities and nations to seek God’s guidance and favor.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the turmoil described in 2 Chronicles 15:6 reflect the consequences of turning away from God in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we recognize God's sovereignty in the adversities we face today?

3. How can we, like Asa, seek God more earnestly in times of national or personal crisis?

4. What role do spiritual leaders play in guiding communities back to God, and how can we support them?

5. How can the principles of collective repentance and seeking God be applied in our local communities or nations today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, providing a backdrop for understanding the consequences faced by Judah and Israel.

Isaiah 45:7
This verse speaks of God creating both peace and calamity, emphasizing His sovereignty over all events, similar to the afflictions mentioned in 2 Chronicles 15:6.

Matthew 24:7
Jesus speaks of nation rising against nation, echoing the turmoil described in 2 Chronicles 15:6, and pointing to the broader theme of divine judgment and the need for vigilance.